AFP: Tipo-Tipo clash now under control

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said the rido-related violence in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, involving two Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) commanders, is under control following joint efforts to de-escalate tensions.

AFP Public Affairs Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), together with the Basilan provincial government, is facilitating a continuing dialogue between the warring groups.

“The incident is now under control. The AFP, through the Western Mindanao Command and Joint Task Force Orion, continues to coordinate with the PNP, Basilan Council of Elders, and the MILF leadership to restore normalcy and protect civilians,” Trinidad said.

He urged the public to remain calm and support the ongoing peace efforts, emphasizing that the military remains committed to sustaining the peace and stability in Mindanao through “cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility.”

The clashes, which erupted Sunday following the killing of Barangay councilor and Islamic teacher Nadzri Tarahin in Lamitan City, escalated into armed confrontations between the groups of MILF Commanders Rajan and Hud Limaya.

Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman said the conflict was triggered by the killing of Tarahin, a relative of one of the commanders.

“We immediately met with security and MILF leaders to calm tensions and maintain peace,” Hataman said, adding that the mediation efforts were ongoing.

Tipo-Tipo Mayor Arcam Istarul earlier reported that about 90 percent of the residents in the town center fled their homes for safety, with all classes and government work suspended.

101st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Frederick Sales clarified that the violence was a local clan feud, not a large-scale insurgent attack. “Our forces are on the ground to maintain order and ensure the safety of civilians,” he said.

WestMinCom spokesperson Lt. Col. Venjie Pendon said troops continued to exercise tactical restraint to avoid further escalation while securing the affected communities.

As of Tuesday, government forces and local leaders said the tension had eased, with reconciliation talks underway to prevent renewed violence.